The last years of Ellington’s life and career tend to get overshadowed by his halcyon days of 1939-41,but Ellington closed out with an impressive bang. This concert from Uppsala, Sweden in November, 1971 finds The Duke right after having recorded three tremendous albums, New Orleans Suite, The Afro-Eurasian Eclipse and Toga Brava Suite. The Orchestra still boasted all stars like Russell Procope, Cootie Williams, Paul Gonsalves, Norris Turney, Harold Ashby and the indefatigable Harry Carney, and all are featured on this collection of vintage pieces and newer selections.Ellington delivers some familiar material such as “Satin Doll,” “Rockin’ In Rhythm” and “Take The ‘A’ Train” with enthusiasm, but the tour de force of his “hits” comes during the 19 minute medley, when after Ellington delivers solo and trio versions of popular pieces, Harry Carney joins in and holds his note on “Sophisticated Lady” that is simply death defying. Gonsalves blows a fog on a bluesy “Happy Reunion,” and Turney plays a sweet flute on “Fife” from the Toga Brava Suite. From the recent Afro-Asian Eclipse, Harold Ashby pops his reed like it’s a Dum Dum on a sizzling “Chinoiserie,” wile Money Johnson gives tribute to Louis Armstrong on “Hello Dolly” and things close out with Nell Brookshire and Tony Watkins sing out a R&B ish “One More Time For The People.”
Ellington suavely encores with an intimate solo of “Lotus Blossom” that is reflective and demure, ending the evening with style and class. As with everything Ellington, this is one to be treasured until they put you into the pine box.